Essex, a county in the East of England, is home to charming villages and historical architecture, making it a great place to visit if you want to take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. History buffs can head to Colchester Castle, the largest Norman keep in Europe, which now houses Colchester and Essex Museum. Another must-see attraction is Colchester Zoo, with species such as lions, tigers, and white rhinos. Make sure to drop by the medieval town of Saffron Walden during its market days, Tuesdays and Saturdays, to browse several stalls selling various goods, from fresh fruits and vegetables to fabric and clothing. You can also find several buildings of historical significance in this lovely town, such as St. Mary’s Church, the largest parish church in the county. Complete your getaway by staying at one of the best hotels in Essex, UK, which you’ll find on this list.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 14, 2024.
1. Down Hall Hotel, Bishops Stortford (from USD 155)
Sitting on a magnificent 100-acre (40.47-hectare) estate, Down Hall Hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites with stunning garden views. With furnishings designed with comfort and elegance in mind, you’ll indeed have the time of your life throughout your stay at this property. On days you’re not out exploring, you can walk around the hotel premises and admire the lush garden and forest. You can also play a giant chess game or croquet with your companions or other guests.
Moreover, you can indulge in a pampering session in the on-site spa, which offers several services that will rejuvenate you. If you are with your partner, you can book their luxury double room for couples.
Down Hall Hotel
Address: Matching Road, Hatfield Heath
2. The North Hill Hotel, Colchester (from USD 100)
Affordable pricing with excellent value for money, including free breakfast
Convenient access 24/7, comfortable rooms with modern facilities, and friendly, helpful staff
Central location near town center, shops, and attractions, with easy access to public transport
Delicious and varied breakfast options, excellent restaurant with friendly service
If you are mainly visiting attractions in Colchester, this one is perfect for you. This boutique hotel provides cozy accommodations suitable for all kinds of travelers. If you are traveling alone, you can choose their single rooms with the basic amenities you’ll need. However, if you have companions or want a more spacious room, you can opt for their other options such as their double rooms or mini-suites.
You should also check out their on-site restaurant, which serves British cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.
3. Channels Hotel, Chelmsford (from USD 154)
Housed in a 15th-century Tudor home and a modified stable block, this boutique hotel in Chelmsford features modern spaces with a tinge of old-world charms. You also don’t need to worry whether you’ll like their rooms since you’ll surely find one that suits your taste among their individually designed rooms. Further, all rooms come with complimentary fresh milk and Costa Coffee.
All hotel guests are eligible for free entry to Nuffield Health Center, which has a swimming pool and fitness center, so be sure to grab that opportunity.
Channels Hotel
Address: Belsteads Farm Lane, Little Waltham
4. Holiday Inn Express Braintree, an IHG Hotel, Braintree (from USD 110)
Reasonable pricing with complimentary breakfast, parking, and good value for money.
Convenient location, EV chargers, spacious and clean rooms, dog-friendly, and free parking.
Ideal for airport access, central for local attractions, and easy access to major roads.
Good variety and quality breakfast, friendly staff, and convenient dining options nearby.
Those touring Braintree can stay at this hotel, which offers stylish rooms and suites with plush beds, ensuring restful nights. The dedicated workspace, ample sockets, and complimentary Wi-Fi make working remotely possible. On lazy days, you can just lounge in bed while watching television and order room service. Additionally, you can bring your fur baby along, as this property allows pets for an additional charge.
All bookings also come with complimentary breakfast to fill you up before exploring the area.
Holiday Inn Express Braintree, an IHG Hotel
Address: Panners Roundabout, Notley Cross
5. The Oyster Smack, Burnham on Crouch (from USD 115)
The Oyster Smack boasts custom-designed rooms suitable for solo travelers and couples alike. Each spacious room has snug furnishings guaranteeing a wonderful stay, such as a bed that will easily lull you to sleep. You can also stay connected with family and friends thanks to the complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property.
Their on-site restaurant serves Asian and British cuisine prepared by a chef who has worked in famous restaurants, including one owned by Gordon Ramsay.
6. Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns, Clacton-on-Sea (from USD 110)
If you are exploring the coastal town of Clacton-on-Sea, this hotel is the one for you. Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston’s Inns offers 38 well-lit rooms with basic amenities designed for comfort. Their comfortable Hypnos beds will surely give you a good night’s sleep after a day of visiting attractions such as Jaywick Beach, Clacton Pier, and Clacton Pavillion.
Moreover, the property has a spacious parking lot where you can park your vehicle free of charge.
Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns
Address: Hartley Brook Road Clacton on Sea
7. Holiday Inn Southend, an IHG Hotel, Southend-on-Sea (from USD 136)
Reasonable pricing for spacious rooms and good breakfast options. Parking fees could be considered high for longer stays.
Clean and modern facilities, rooftop bar with airport view, convenient location near Southend Airport and local shops.
Ideal location for airport access, close to local shops and bus stops, with a pleasant view of the airport from the restaurant.
Delicious and generous portions in the restaurant, diverse breakfast choices, though some guests found the dinner menu to be average.
Holiday Inn Southend, an IGH Hotel, features well-appointed, soundproofed rooms that ensure utmost comfort throughout your stay. You can also opt for their superior rooms with plush super king beds and an excellent airport view. Additionally, you can bring your furry companion on your trip as this accommodation has pet-friendly rooms. Do note that additional charges apply.
You can also drop by their fully soundproofed rooftop restaurant and bar, which serves mouthwatering dishes against a fantastic airport runway backdrop. If you want to keep up with your workout routine, you can do so at the hotel’s on-site fitness suite.
Holiday Inn Southend, an IHG Hotel
Address: 77 Eastwoodbury Crescent
8. Le Bouchon Brasserie & Hotel, Maldon (from USD 138)
Housed in a gorgeous 300-year-old Georgian building, Le Bouchon Brasserie & Hotel has elegant, individually designed rooms complete with the basic amenities guaranteeing a wonderful stay. You can spend your afternoons sipping on tea while snacking on pastries and scones in their on-site restaurant, which also serves delectable French and English cuisine.
Further, this property is close to many attractions, such as The Museum of Power and Combined Military Services Museum - both a three-minute drive from the hotel.
Le Bouchon Brasserie & Hotel
Address: The Square, Holloway Road
9. Lifehouse Spa And Hotel, Thorpe-le-Soken (from USD 251)
Reasonable pricing for a spa-focused hotel with a range of treatments
Beautiful gardens, spacious rooms, excellent spa facilities, and friendly staff
Great location near the coast with tranquil surroundings and wheelchair accessibility
Fantastic restaurant meals with good breakfast options, although some menu items were limited
If you are looking for the perfect accommodation for a romantic getaway, look no further. This adults-only hotel in Thorpe-le-Soken boasts elegantly appointed luxurious rooms with breathtaking garden views or direct access to an outdoor patio and garden. This hotel also offers packages that come with full spa access and some with spa treatments.
You can go for a pampering session with your significant other in the spa or take a soothing dip in the pool. A sauna, steam room, and other rejuvenating spots are also available when you are looking for relaxation.
10. The Bottle Kiln Wetherspoon, Harwich (from USD 74)
Great value for money, cheap food and drinks, excellent pricing for rooms
Spacious, modern rooms, air conditioning, complimentary tea/coffee, well-furnished
Convenient location near ferry port, train station, and amenities, short drive to ferry dock
Good quality food at very good prices, delicious breakfast, wide variety of food at reasonable prices
The Bottle Kiln Wetherspoon is another excellent option, especially if you’re visiting attractions in or near Harwich. Equipped with snug beds, you’ll absolutely enjoy staying in one of their spacious en-suite rooms. A desk and complimentary Wi-Fi are also available, ideal for working remotely. On lazy days, you can just order room service and satisfy your hunger in the comfort of your room.
Additionally, this property boasts an on-site restaurant and bar where you can get your fill without leaving the hotel premises.
The Bottle Kiln Wetherspoon
Address: 60 Kingsway Dovercourt
Spend an incredible holiday in Essex
Essex is a place full of charming attractions you’ll love to visit. Book a stay at one of Essex’s exceptional hotels on our list and explore the hidden gems of this lovely county.
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